Some overseas Filipino workers (OFW) in Macau are appealing for help because their income is affected due to the COVID-19 restrictions.
In Saleema Refran’s GMA News “24 Oras” report this Tuesday, a video was shown as people rioted while taking food aid provided by a restaurant.
According to the uploader of the video, many of those who struggled to get aid were OFWs.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said that about 5,000 of the 26,000 OFWs in Macau are affected by the new restrictions there.
Most of those affected are those working in the commercial and industrial sectors whose operations have stopped due to increased COVID-19 cases.
Only those in food businesses, groceries, and essential services are allowed to operate.
“Hindi stay in kasi itong mga ito eh, so ‘pag hindi sila maka-report, no pay,” said DMW spokesperson Toby Nebrida.
“Napakahirap po talaga. Talagang mauubos po yung pondo ninyo rito or savings dahil one month po kayong walang sweldo. Kailangan ninyo pong bumili ng mga pagkain, ng mga pangangailangan sa pang-araw-araw,” explained Camua.
OFWs in Macau affected by COVID-19 restrictions
The barista, Ian Escano, is still making ends meet, but he is appealing for help for other OFWs.
“Hindi na po alam ng mga Pilipino dito kung saan kukuhanin yung pangangailangan nila everyday until mag-stop itong restrictions dito. Hindi na rin alam kung saan kukuhanin pangbayad ng bills, rentals dito, at siyempre yung pinapadala namin,” he said.
OFWs who are lucky enough not to be greatly affected by the restriction are doing their best to help their countrymen there.
It is said that the DMW has started providing financial assistance in the form of 50-dollar vouchers to buy what they need. In addition, 200 dollar one-time assistance is provided to those affected by COVID-19.
“Our Filipino Overseas laborer offices are working closely together para matulungan natin. We identify it and we will get the support and assistance as soon as we can given the challenges. Ang pagkakaaalam ko medyo lumuwag na ata na-lift na yung suspension. So gradually, nagre-resume na ng normal,” said Nebrida.
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